Huahine offers a quiet charm that’s perfect for memorable tours and experiences. Its lush landscapes, tranquil lagoons, and authentic Polynesian culture make it a prime destination for exploring either by air, sea, or land. We particularly enjoy the private flight—seeing the island from above offers unmatched views of its lush greenery and shimmering waters. For those wanting a longer getaway, the 7-day catamaran cruise takes you through some of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia, blending sailing, snorkeling, and local culture. Meanwhile, the Huahine private shore tour is perfect for a shorter, more intimate glimpse of the island’s highlights. Each experience offers a different perspective, ensuring there’s something that fits your style and schedule.
Here’s a quick overview of our top picks: from a breathtaking 30-minute private flight that gives you a bird’s-eye view of Huahine’s volcanic peaks and lagoons, to the 7-day private catamaran cruise exploring the Leeward Islands, and an engaging shore tour featuring local sites like vanilla plantations and ancient marae. For each, we’ll explore what makes them unique, who they’re best suited for, and practical tips to help you decide.
1. Private 30-minute flight downwind of Huahine
At number one on our list is the private 30-minute flight that takes you over Huahine’s stunning landscapes. This tour is perfect if you’re craving a quick but unforgettable perspective on the island, with views of the lagoons, bay, and volcanic peaks. The flight is private, accommodating just two people at a time, which makes for an intimate experience—ideal for couples or solo travelers wanting a special memory. You’ll soar above the entire island, marveling at the contrast of lush greenery against the vivid blue waters, and passing through the bay that splits the island in two, resembling a Vahine (Polynesian woman).
What sets this tour apart is its breathtaking scope and personalized nature. The pilot shares insights into the island’s formation and highlights notable sights, turning the flight into an educational experience as well as a visual feast. The flight lasts about 30 minutes, making it a perfect addition to a day of exploring or relaxing on Huahine. The cost is around $291.51 per person, which is a splurge but well worth it for the memories and photos. Reviewers give it a perfect 5.0/5, praising the “wonderful views” and “amazing experience.” Keep in mind that if traveling in a group, you’ll take turns, but most find waiting in the café a small price for such a special view.
Bottom Line: For a quick, private, and visually stunning experience, this flight offers an unforgettable perspective of Huahine’s natural beauty.
2. Catamaran Cruise Polynesia 7 Days PRIVATE – Leeward Islands
This 7-day private catamaran cruise ranks high for travelers seeking an immersive, relaxed adventure across multiple islands. Costing about $8,548.49 for up to eight people, it’s an investment in a full week of cruising, snorkeling, and cultural discovery. The itinerary begins with Huahine, exploring its “wild” southern coast, then moves on to Raiatea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora, offering a true sampler of Polynesian islands. Each day involves sailing between pristine lagoons, swimming in coral gardens, and enjoying sunsets from the deck.
What makes this cruise unique is its blend of comfort and authenticity. The boat is well-equipped for relaxation, and the daily activities include snorkeling, visiting vanilla plantations, pearl farms, and traditional villages. The crew ensures a smooth experience, with options for optional excursions ashore. The reviews are glowing, noting the “gorgeous scenery” and “peaceful sailing.” Because of the group size, it’s suitable for families or groups of friends wanting an exclusive, no-hassle escape. The only potential downside is the price, but if your goal is a stress-free, all-inclusive escape with plenty of time on the water, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: For those wanting a week of private sailing, marine exploration, and island hopping, this cruise offers unmatched comfort and cultural richness.
3. 7 Day Catamaran Cruise – Explore the Leeward Islands
This 7-day catamaran cruise is perfect if you’re after a similar experience to the previous cruise but perhaps with a more flexible or slightly different itinerary. Price-wise, at about $1,367.76 per person, it provides a more accessible option for travelers who want to explore the Leeward Islands without booking the entire boat. The cruise emphasizes a gentle pace, with stops designed for snorkeling, local encounters, and marine activities. The journey begins in Huahine, then moves through Raiatea and Taha’a, with nights spent on anchorages that allow for peaceful evenings under the stars.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic interactions—visiting vanilla groves, pearl farms, and local villages, and enjoying fresh, locally sourced meals on board. The hosts are praised for their personalized approach, making every guest feel involved and cared for. It suits travelers who want an immersive, yet relaxed experience, avoiding crowded tours. The main consideration is that, since the focus is on sailing and exploration, travelers should be comfortable with boat travel and snorkeling.
Bottom Line: For an affordable, multi-day sailing adventure emphasizing local culture and marine fun, this cruise balances value with a genuine experience.
4. Huahine Private Shore Tour: Fare, Maeva & Island Flavors
This private shore tour is ideal for cruise passengers with limited time—about 3.5 hours—who want a curated taste of Huahine’s highlights. It starts right at the port, with a 4×4 vehicle that takes you to scenic spots and cultural sites. Your driver-guide shares stories about the island’s history and traditions while leading you through Fare, the Maeva archaeological site, a vanilla plantation, and a black pearl farm. The tour includes a stop at the Belvedere for fresh fruit and juices, offering stunning coastal views en route.
What makes this tour appealing is its compact, well-paced itinerary that balances culture, scenery, and island flavors. It’s perfect for travelers with limited shore time but who still want to experience Huahine’s essence. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you’ll see authentic sites without feeling rushed. Priced at $597.60 per person, it’s a reasonable cost considering the personalized experience and the inclusion of several highlights. As it’s a private tour, you can customize the stops slightly, making it flexible for your interests.
Bottom Line: For a quick but rich overview of Huahine’s culture and scenery, this private shore tour provides a memorable taste of the island’s best.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you’re after a quick, breathtaking view, the private flight is unbeatable. For a full, multi-day exploration, the 7-day catamaran cruises deliver immersive marine adventures and cultural experiences—ideal for sailing enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. The shore tour suits travelers with limited time who want a curated, insightful glimpse into Huahine’s highlights.
Think about how much time you have—if your cruise stops for only a few hours, the private shore tour offers a focused experience. For those who want to explore the Leeward Islands in depth, the longer cruises provide a comprehensive adventure. Booking early is advisable, especially for the multi-day cruises, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Huahine’s mix of natural beauty and authentic Polynesian culture makes it a wonderful place for a variety of tours. If you’re short on time but want a quick wow factor, the private flight will leave lasting memories. For those with a week to spare, a catamaran cruise offers a relaxed, in-depth exploration of the islands, with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, local visits, and sunsets. And if your cruise schedule is tight, the shore tour provides a rich snapshot of what makes Huahine special.
No matter which experience you choose, booking early ensures you’ll get the dates and options you want. Huahine promises a genuine taste of Polynesia—let these tours help you make the most of it.